WINSFORD United boss Joe Gibiliru believes his rejuvenated side are well placed to make a push for the top five.

Recent signings Mischa Showers and Stephen Siddell have bolstered the squad while the return of Chris Sheppard and John Bluck from injury will mean competition for places is fierce.

Having won their last league game at Formby, Gibiliru is hoping his Blues can continue to find success away from the Barton Stadium as they face a double-header on the road.

On Saturday the ninth-placed Blues travel to Ashton Athletic and on Tuesday they visit third-placed Newcastle Town (7.45pm ko).

Gibiliru said: “We could have scored more goals against Formby but at the moment it’s just about getting wins. And if it means winning ugly at Ashton then so be it.

“Newcastle are a good side but we have played them before so we know what they are about. Two or three wins in this league and you are right back in the mix of the top five and that’s what we are looking to do.”

Winsford have been handed a home draw in the third round of the Challenge Cup – if they defeated Irlam last night (Tuesday) – with either Bootle or Maine Road being the visitors.

Basement boys Barnton lived up to their current league position with an 8-0 drubbing on Saturday.

Visiting Woodley, who now lie in third, made light work of Mike Duckett’s men at Townfield Lane who are now rooted to the bottom of Cheshire League Division One.